Jump to content

Atari 1040STE: Difference between revisions

From RetroTechCollection
← Older editNewer edit →
undoJosh (talk | contribs)
Bureaucrats, Interface administrators, Moderators, Suppressors, Administrators
6,590 edits
VisualWikitext
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
| name = Atari 1040STE
| name = Atari 1040STE
| image = [[File:Atari1040STE.jpg]]
| image = [[File:Atari 1040 STE.jpg]]
| manufacturer = Atari Corporation
| manufacturer = Atari Corporation
| type = Home computer
| type = Home computer
Line 57: Line 57:


I/O controller devices on the mainboard commonly include MC68901 MFP, MC6850 ACIAs (2×), RS‑232 line drivers/receivers (e.g., SN75188/SN75189 or MC1488/MC1489 on some revisions).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
I/O controller devices on the mainboard commonly include MC68901 MFP, MC6850 ACIAs (2×), RS‑232 line drivers/receivers (e.g., SN75188/SN75189 or MC1488/MC1489 on some revisions).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
== Gallery ==
<gallery>
File:Atari1040STE.jpg|1040STE with two front DB‑15 enhanced joystick ports visible.
File:Atari-ST-13pindin.svg|13‑pin video connector pinout (ST/STE family).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Atari_ST_VGA_Cable_Procedures |title=Atari ST 13‑pin video pinout |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
</gallery>


== Display and Graphics ==
== Display and Graphics ==
Line 69: Line 63:
** 320×200 pixels, 16 colors chosen from a 12‑bit (4096‑color) palette.
** 320×200 pixels, 16 colors chosen from a 12‑bit (4096‑color) palette.
** 640×200 pixels, 4 colors from 4096.
** 640×200 pixels, 4 colors from 4096.
** 640×400 pixels, 1‑bit mono (SM124 monitor at ~71.2 Hz).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE and video modes |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
** 640×400 pixels, 1‑bit mono (SM124 monitor at ~71.2 Hz).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST|title=Atari ST – STE and video modes|publisher=Wikipedia|date=2025|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Palette: 16 registers, 12‑bit RGB (4‑4‑4). Raster tricks permit more onscreen colors.
* Palette: 16 registers, 12‑bit RGB (4‑4‑4). Raster tricks permit more onscreen colors.
* Scrolling and BLiTTER: hardware fine horizontal/vertical scroll; BLiTTER accelerates block moves, line fills, and masked ops (PLCC‑68, or integrated in later GST MCU).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/080104.htm |title=DOIT_ST: BLiTTER |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Scrolling and BLiTTER: hardware fine horizontal/vertical scroll; BLiTTER accelerates block moves, line fills, and masked ops (PLCC‑68, or integrated in later GST MCU).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/080104.htm|title=DOIT_ST: BLiTTER|publisher=DOIT_ST|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Sprites: none (implemented in software with BLiTTER or CPU).
* Sprites: none (implemented in software with BLiTTER or CPU).
* Outputs: 13‑pin DIN RGB/mono; optional RF modulator on “W/MOD” assemblies for TV display; SCART compatible with passive cable (resistor recommendations vary by model).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php |title=Atari Video cables and SCART mapping |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Outputs: 13‑pin DIN RGB/mono; optional RF modulator on “W/MOD” assemblies for TV display; SCART compatible with passive cable (resistor recommendations vary by model).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php|title=Atari Video cables and SCART mapping|publisher=Info‑Coach.fr|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== Memory and Storage ==
RAM organization and expansion
* Stock RAM: 1 MB ST‑RAM using 30‑pin SIMMs (some early boards used SIPPs). Configurations of 0.5/1/2/4 MB supported officially; 4 MB max via 4×1 MB or 2×2 MB depending on socketing; 2.5 MB is not officially supported.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST|title=Atari ST – STE memory (SIMM/SIPP)|publisher=Wikipedia|date=2025|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Addressing: contiguous ST‑RAM in the lower 4 MB of the 24‑bit space; DMA sound fetches must reside in first 4 MB.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm|title=Atari Compendium – DMA sound register map|publisher=Bus‑Error mirror|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
ROM
* TOS 1.06 (1.60) or 1.62: 256 KB (two 128 KB ROMs in most STEs). 1.62 fixed desktop medium‑resolution boot bug in 1.60; users often upgrade to TOS 2.06 (256 KB) for enhanced desktop and 1.44 MB floppy support in Mega STE class machines.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html|title=TOS versions overview|author=Dirk van den Burg|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS|title=Atari TOS|publisher=Wikipedia|date=2024|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
Floppy and mass storage
* Floppy: 3.5″ DS/DD 720 KB internal; WD1772 controller (many -02‑02 variants). Stock STE units are DD; later HD support requires “AJAX” controller (C302096) not normally fitted to 1040STE (standard on Mega STE).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/WD1772|title=WD1772|publisher=AtariForumWiki|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* ACSI hard‑disk: external via DB‑19; common modern replacements include UltraSatan/ACSI2STM. Early DMA IC C025913‑38 can cause write corruption on some STE boards; later C398739‑001 fixes timing (see Troubleshooting).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/|title=STE bad DMA investigation|author=Christian Zietz|date=2023-04-22|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
*
 
== Sound Capabilities ==
Programmable sound and PCM playback:
* YM2149F PSG: three independent square‑wave tone channels plus white noise; 4‑bit per‑channel volume and envelope generator; routed through LMC1992 mixer.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Yamaha_YM2149|title=Yamaha YM2149|publisher=AtariForumWiki|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* DMA PCM: 8‑bit mono or stereo, sample rates ≈6.258/12.517/25.033/50.066 kHz; memory‑mapped control registers at $FF8900–$FF8924; addresses must be even, and buffers must reside within first 4 MB of ST‑RAM.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm|title=Atari Compendium – STe DMA sound|publisher=Bus‑Error mirror|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Outputs: rear L/R RCA line out; mono audio is also available on the 13‑pin monitor connector (pin 1).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php|title=Atari ST Interfaces – Video/Audio pins|publisher=Info‑Coach.fr|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>


== PCB Schematics & Service Manual ==
== PCB Schematics & Service Manual ==
Atari provided an official field service manual covering both 520STE and 1040STE with schematics and parts lists.
Atari provided an official field service manual covering both 520STE and 1040STE with schematics and parts lists.
* Core documents:
* Core documents:
** 520/1040STE Field Service Manual (81 pages), includes: CPU/BLiTTER/ROM/CLK; RS‑232/Parallel/MIDI/PSG; DMA/FDD; MCU/SHIFTER/Video; Stereo Sound/Enhanced Joystick; RAM; PSU; Test fixture.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html |title=Atari 520STE / 1040STE Field Service Manual |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
** 520/1040STE Field Service Manual (81 pages), includes: CPU/BLiTTER/ROM/CLK; RS‑232/Parallel/MIDI/PSG; DMA/FDD; MCU/SHIFTER/Video; Stereo Sound/Enhanced Joystick; RAM; PSU; Test fixture.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html|title=Atari 520STE / 1040STE Field Service Manual|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
** 1040STE schematic set (assembly C300780‑001 Rev. A).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://elektrotanya.com/atari_1040ste_c300780-001_rev.a_sch_1986.pdf/download.html |title=ATARI 1040STE C300780‑001 Rev.A – Schematics |publisher=Elektrotanya |date=1986 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari |title=Atari 1040STe Schematic |publisher=Internet Archive |date=1986 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
** 1040STE schematic set (assembly C300780‑001 Rev. A).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://elektrotanya.com/atari_1040ste_c300780-001_rev.a_sch_1986.pdf/download.html|title=ATARI 1040STE C300780‑001 Rev.A – Schematics|publisher=Elektrotanya|date=1986|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari|title=Atari 1040STe Schematic|publisher=Internet Archive|date=1986|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>


Motherboard assemblies and identifiers (examples from parts list and service docs):
Motherboard assemblies and identifiers (examples from parts list and service docs):
Line 85: Line 99:
! Assembly/Part !! Description / Region !! Notable features
! Assembly/Part !! Description / Region !! Notable features
|-
|-
| CA400339‑201 || Main assembly 1040STE W/MOD (USA) || NTSC unit with RF modulator (TV).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400339‑201) |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| CA400339‑201 || Main assembly 1040STE W/MOD (USA) || NTSC unit with RF modulator (TV).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400339‑201)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
|-
| CA400340‑111 || PCB 1040STE USA W/MOD || Board assembly for NTSC with modulator.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400340‑111) |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| CA400340‑111 || PCB 1040STE USA W/MOD || Board assembly for NTSC with modulator.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400340‑111)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
|-
| CA400329‑101 || PCB sub‑assembly STE NTSC W/MOD || Sub‑assembly with modulator, cabling.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400329‑101) |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| CA400329‑101 || PCB sub‑assembly STE NTSC W/MOD || Sub‑assembly with modulator, cabling.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400329‑101)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
|-
| CA400366‑001 || TOS ROM set 1.62 (USA) || ICs C301163‑002 (HI), C301164‑002 (LO).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400366‑001) |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| CA400366‑001 || TOS ROM set 1.62 (USA) || ICs C301163‑002 (HI), C301164‑002 (LO).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400366‑001)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
|-
| CA070059‑003 || PSU 110 V assembly (USA/CAN) || Region PSU module.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts (CA070059‑003) |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| CA070059‑003 || PSU 110 V assembly (USA/CAN) || Region PSU module.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA070059‑003)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|}
|}
== Memory and Storage ==
RAM organization and expansion
* Stock RAM: 1 MB ST‑RAM using 30‑pin SIMMs (some early boards used SIPPs). Configurations of 0.5/1/2/4 MB supported officially; 4 MB max via 4×1 MB or 2×2 MB depending on socketing; 2.5 MB is not officially supported.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE memory (SIMM/SIPP) |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Addressing: contiguous ST‑RAM in the lower 4 MB of the 24‑bit space; DMA sound fetches must reside in first 4 MB.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm |title=Atari Compendium – DMA sound register map |publisher=Bus‑Error mirror |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
ROM
* TOS 1.06 (1.60) or 1.62: 256 KB (two 128 KB ROMs in most STEs). 1.62 fixed desktop medium‑resolution boot bug in 1.60; users often upgrade to TOS 2.06 (256 KB) for enhanced desktop and 1.44 MB floppy support in Mega STE class machines.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html |title=TOS versions overview |author=Dirk van den Burg |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS |title=Atari TOS |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
Floppy and mass storage
* Floppy: 3.5″ DS/DD 720 KB internal; WD1772 controller (many -02‑02 variants). Stock STE units are DD; later HD support requires “AJAX” controller (C302096) not normally fitted to 1040STE (standard on Mega STE).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/WD1772 |title=WD1772 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* ACSI hard‑disk: external via DB‑19; common modern replacements include UltraSatan/ACSI2STM. Early DMA IC C025913‑38 can cause write corruption on some STE boards; later C398739‑001 fixes timing (see Troubleshooting).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/ |title=STE bad DMA investigation |author=Christian Zietz |date=2023-04-22 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
== Related Pages ==
* [[Atari 1040STE General Maintenance]]
* [[Atari 1040STE Troubleshooting Guide]]
* [[Atari 1040STE Capacitor Replacement Guide]]
* [[Atari ST Monitors (SM124/SC1224)]] 
* [[Mega STe]] (successor) and [[Atari 1040ST]] (predecessor)
== Sound Capabilities ==
Programmable sound and PCM playback:
* YM2149F PSG: three independent square‑wave tone channels plus white noise; 4‑bit per‑channel volume and envelope generator; routed through LMC1992 mixer.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Yamaha_YM2149 |title=Yamaha YM2149 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* DMA PCM: 8‑bit mono or stereo, sample rates ≈6.258/12.517/25.033/50.066 kHz; memory‑mapped control registers at $FF8900–$FF8924; addresses must be even, and buffers must reside within first 4 MB of ST‑RAM.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm |title=Atari Compendium – STe DMA sound |publisher=Bus‑Error mirror |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Outputs: rear L/R RCA line out; mono audio is also available on the 13‑pin monitor connector (pin 1).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php |title=Atari ST Interfaces – Video/Audio pins |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
== General Maintenance ==
Basic service practices for longevity:
* PSU: recap common Mitsumi SR98/related supplies; replace high‑ESR electrolytics and weak rectifier; verify +5 V/+12 V under load. Community kits and guides document recommended values and upgrades.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.exxosforum.co.uk/atari/last/psu/index.htm |title=The LaST Upgrade – Atari PSU Repair (SR98) |author=exxos |publisher=EXXOS Forum |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* “Bad DMA” mitigation (early STE): if C025913‑38 is fitted, consider replacement with C398739‑001A or apply board‑level fixes; modern research identifies a ready timing issue on RDY between DMA and GST MCU causing missed writes on some boards.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/ |title=A new Atari STE bad DMA investigation |author=Christian Zietz |date=2023-04-22 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Floppy: clean/lubricate rails; verify WD1772; install a Gotek/FlashFloppy as a reversible drive replacement if desired.
* SIMMs: use matched 30‑pin SIMMs; reseat oxidized sockets; avoid mixed parity/non‑parity modules.
For detailed step‑by‑step procedures, see [[Atari 1040STE General Maintenance]].


== Technical Details ==
== Technical Details ==
Line 152: Line 132:
| I/O support || MC68901; 2× MC6850; RS‑232 line drivers/receivers || Timers/interrupts, MIDI/IKBD ACIAs; DB‑25 RS‑232/parallel.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php |title=Atari STE Hardware |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |date=2021-08-16 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| I/O support || MC68901; 2× MC6850; RS‑232 line drivers/receivers || Timers/interrupts, MIDI/IKBD ACIAs; DB‑25 RS‑232/parallel.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php |title=Atari STE Hardware |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |date=2021-08-16 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|}
|}
 
*
== System Architecture at a Glance ==
* CPU (MC68000FN8) on 16‑bit data bus.
* GST MCU arbitrates DRAM cycles among CPU, BLiTTER, floppy/ACSI DMA, and SHIFTER; audio DMA shares video path.
* Video: frame buffer in ST‑RAM; 16 palette registers (12‑bit RGB).
* Sound: YM2149F mixed with stereo DMA via LMC1992 to RCA outputs.
* Storage: WD1772 (floppy) and DMA/ACSI (DB‑19) for hard disks.
* External I/O: RS‑232 (DB‑25M), Centronics (DB‑25F), 13‑pin video, 14‑pin external floppy, 2× DE‑9 (mouse/joy), 2× DA‑15 (enhanced joysticks), 2× MIDI DIN, 40‑pin cartridge.
 
== Logic Board & Analog Board Schematics ==
For the 1040STE, the “logic board” corresponds to the main PCB assemblies listed above; analog circuitry primarily exists in the PSU and RF modulator (if fitted) and in external monitors (e.g., SM124/SC1224). Refer to:
* 520/1040STE Field Service Manual – Section Nine: Schematics and Silkscreens (CPU/BLiTTER/ROM/CLK; RS‑232/Parallel/MIDI/PSG; DMA/FDD; MCU/SHIFTER/Video; Stereo Sound/Joystick; RAM; PSU).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=63 |title=Service Manual – Schematics & Silkscreens |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* 1040STE C300780‑001 schematic set (see links above).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari |title=Atari 1040STe Schematic |publisher=Internet Archive |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== PCB Schematics & Service Guide ==
Motherboard revisions and identifiers (observed from service docs):
{| class="wikitable"
! Rev/Assembly !! Identifying features !! Notes/Docs
|-
| C300780‑001 Rev.A (schematic) || Early STe logic connectivity (MCU/SHIFTER/DMA sound paths) || Schematic bundle, 6 pages.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://elektrotanya.com/atari_1040ste_c300780-001_rev.a_sch_1986.pdf/download.html |title=ATARI 1040STE C300780‑001 Rev.A Schematic |publisher=Elektrotanya |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
| CA400340‑111 (USA W/MOD) || NTSC board with RF modulator || Parts list indicates “ASSY PCB 1040 STE USA W/MOD”.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
| CA400329‑101 (NTSC W/MOD) || Sub‑assembly with modulator/cables || As above.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Service Manual – Parts |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|}
 
Service manual references:
* 520/1040STE Field Service Manual (Covers overview, theory, test flow, diagnostics, schematics).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html |title=Atari 520STE Field Service Manual (also for 1040STE) |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* 1040STE schematic sets (Internet Archive; Elektrotanya mirrors).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari |title=Atari 1040STe Schematic |publisher=Internet Archive |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://elektrotanya.com/atari_1040ste_c300780-001_rev.a_sch_1986.pdf/download.html |title=ATARI 1040STE C300780‑001 Rev.A Schematic |publisher=Elektrotanya |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== Troubleshooting ==
Common field issues and remedies:
* ACSI “bad DMA” on early STE boards (C025913‑38): on some units, write operations to ACSI devices may corrupt data due to borderline RDY timing between DMA and GST MCU. Replace the DMA with C398739‑001(A) or use a proven adapter/timing‑fix; ensure PSU and cabling are sound.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/ |title=A new Atari STE bad DMA investigation |author=Christian Zietz |date=2023-04-22 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* PSU ripple/sag under load: recap Mitsumi SR98/related PSUs with quality low‑ESR capacitors; check rectifier and output diodes; verify +5.00–5.10 V at mainboard under floppy load.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.exxosforum.co.uk/atari/last/psu/index.htm |title=The LaST Upgrade – PSU Repair |publisher=EXXOS Forum |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Floppy read/write errors: clean heads, re‑grease rails; confirm WD1772 revision and step rate; consider Gotek for testing.
* No/weak audio on RCA: inspect LMC1992 supply and Microwire lines; verify RCA jacks and muting transistors; check that audio is not muted in software.
* No color / sync issues: confirm monitor cable wiring to Atari 13‑pin DIN (note separate H/V sync in mono vs composite sync for some displays).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Atari_ST_VGA_Cable_Procedures |title=Atari ST VGA/13‑pin pinout |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>


== Technical Documentation ==
== Technical Documentation ==
* [[Atari 1040STE Field Service Manual]] (covers diagnostics, schematics).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html |title=Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari 1040STE Field Service Manual]] (covers diagnostics, schematics).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html |title=Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari 1040STE Schematics (C300780‑001 Rev.A)]] – full board interconnects.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari |title=Atari 1040STe Schematic |publisher=Internet Archive |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari 1040STE Schematics (C300780‑001 Rev.A)]] – full board interconnects.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari |title=Atari 1040STe Schematic |publisher=Internet Archive |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari ST Series Technical Reference Manual]] (general ST family hardware).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/163723/Atari-St-Series.html |title=Atari ST Series Technical Reference Manual |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari ST Series Technical Reference Manual]] (general ST family hardware).
* [[TOS 1.6/1.62/2.06 notes]] (revisions and upgrade guidance).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html |title=TOS: The Operating System |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[TOS 1.6/1.62/2.06 notes]] (revisions and upgrade guidance).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html |title=TOS: The Operating System |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
== Related Pages ==
* [[Atari 1040STE General Maintenance]]
* [[Atari 1040STE Troubleshooting Guide]]
* [[Atari 1040STE Capacitor Replacement Guide]]
* [[Atari ST Monitors (SM124/SC1224)]] 


== References ==
== References ==

Revision as of 21:06, 12 August 2025

Atari 1040STE
1040STE with SC1224 RGB monitor
Specifications
ManufacturerAtari Corporation
TypeHome computer
ReleasedNovember 1, 1989
Discontinued1992
Intro priceC$999 (Nov 1990, Canada); reduced to C$699 (Dec 1990, Canada).[1][2]
CPUMotorola MC68000FN8 @ 8 MHz (PLCC‑68)[3]
Memory1 MB RAM standard; expandable to 4 MB via 30‑pin SIMMs (or early SIPP)[4]
StorageInternal 3.5″ DS/DD 720 KB floppy (WD1772 controller); external 14‑pin DIN floppy; ACSI (DB‑19) hard‑disk port.[5][6]
Display320×200 (16 colors from 4096) at 50 Hz PAL / 60 Hz NTSC; 640×200 (4 colors from 4096); 640×400 mono (SM124, ~71.2 Hz).[7]
SoundYamaha YM2149F PSG (3 voices + noise) + 8‑bit stereo DMA PCM at 6.258/12.517/25.033/50.066 kHz; LMC1992 analog audio mixer.[8][9]
Dimensions475 mm W × 290 mm D × 70 mm H (18.7 × 11.4 × 2.8 in).[10]
Weight≈4.3 kg (≈9.5 lb).[11]
OS / FirmwareTOS 1.06 (1.60) or TOS 1.62 in ROM; user‑upgradable to TOS 2.06.[12][13]
PredecessorAtari 1040ST/STFM
SuccessorMega STe
Model no.1040STE

The Atari 1040STE (often stylized 1040STe) is the enhanced 1 MB member of Atari’s ST^E series, adding a 12‑bit (4096‑color) palette, stereo 8‑bit DMA audio, BLiTTER support, two enhanced joystick/analogue ports, and SIMM‑based RAM, while retaining full ST compatibility. Introduced in late 1989 and sold through the early 1990s, it was popular in Europe for music production (built‑in MIDI), DTP, and gaming.[14][15]

Architecture and Processor

The 1040STE uses a 16/32‑bit CISC CPU and a small set of Atari and third‑party support ICs:

  • CPU: Motorola MC68000FN8 (PLCC‑68) clocked at 8 MHz; 16‑bit data bus, 24‑bit address bus (16 MB address space).[16]
  • MFP: Motorola MC68901 (interrupt controller, timers, RS‑232 control).[17]
  • ACIAs: 2 × MC6850 (keyboard/IKBD and MIDI serial links).[18][19]
  • PSG: Yamaha YM2149F programmable sound generator (3 tone channels + noise).[20]
  • DMA sound: 8‑bit PCM stereo using dedicated DMA audio hardware; sample rates 6,258 / 12,517 / 25,033 / 50,066 Hz.[21]
  • Audio mixer/EQ: National (TI) LMC1992 (Microwire‑controlled volume/bass/treble/balance).[22]
  • Video: GST Shifter (STe variants C300588‑001 / C301712‑001) with 12‑bit palette; hardware fine scroll; BLiTTER support via discrete PLCC‑68 BLiTTER or integrated MCU (see below).[23]
  • MMU/GLUE: STe “GST MCU” (C300589 without BLiTTER; later C302183 with BLiTTER integrated, 144‑pin QFP).[24]
  • Floppy disk controller: Western Digital WD1772 (most commonly WD1772‑02‑02).[25]
  • ACSI/DMA disk interface: early STE boards use DMA IC C025913‑38; later boards use C398739‑001A with timing fix (see Troubleshooting).[26]

Clocks and regional timing

  • CPU clock: nominal 8 MHz.
  • Video timing: 50 Hz PAL / 60 Hz NTSC in color modes; ~71.2 Hz vertical in high‑resolution mono (SM124).[27]

Bus architecture and DMA

  • Data bus: 16‑bit; address bus: 24‑bit; flat memory model (0–4 MB ST‑RAM typical). BLiTTER and DMA arbitrate memory with the GST MCU; DMA channels for floppy and ACSI hard disk; separate audio DMA engine for stereo PCM.[28][29]

Input/Output and Expansion

All connectors (by physical type):

  • Video: 13‑pin Atari DIN (RGB analog, mono, H/V sync, audio in/out, +12 V sense). Pinout widely documented for ST/STE.[30][31]
  • Television RF (region dependent): present on NTSC “W/MOD” assemblies (onboard modulator).[32]
  • Audio out: 2 × RCA (Left/Right) stereo line outputs (rear panel).[33]
  • MIDI: 2 × 5‑pin DIN (MIDI IN/OUT), 31.25 kbit/s via 6850 ACIA.[34]
  • Serial (modem): DB‑25 male RS‑232C; printer: DB‑25 female Centronics‑compatible parallel.[35]
  • Joystick/mouse (legacy): 2 × DE‑9 male under keyboard (Port 0 mouse/joystick; Port 1 joystick). Pinout is standard Atari/Kempston.[36]
  • Enhanced joystick/analogue: 2 × DA‑15 (DB‑15F) “Enhanced Joystick Ports” (supporting extra buttons, paddles/light pen).[37][38]
  • External floppy: 14‑pin round DIN.[39]
  • ACSI (DMA hard‑disk/laser printer): 19‑pin D‑sub (DB‑19).[40]
  • Cartridge: 40‑contact card‑edge slot (128 KB ROMs typical).[41]

I/O controller devices on the mainboard commonly include MC68901 MFP, MC6850 ACIAs (2×), RS‑232 line drivers/receivers (e.g., SN75188/SN75189 or MC1488/MC1489 on some revisions).[42]

Display and Graphics

Video subsystem (GST Shifter, STe variant):

  • Resolutions and color depths:
    • 320×200 pixels, 16 colors chosen from a 12‑bit (4096‑color) palette.
    • 640×200 pixels, 4 colors from 4096.
    • 640×400 pixels, 1‑bit mono (SM124 monitor at ~71.2 Hz).[43]
  • Palette: 16 registers, 12‑bit RGB (4‑4‑4). Raster tricks permit more onscreen colors.
  • Scrolling and BLiTTER: hardware fine horizontal/vertical scroll; BLiTTER accelerates block moves, line fills, and masked ops (PLCC‑68, or integrated in later GST MCU).[44]
  • Sprites: none (implemented in software with BLiTTER or CPU).
  • Outputs: 13‑pin DIN RGB/mono; optional RF modulator on “W/MOD” assemblies for TV display; SCART compatible with passive cable (resistor recommendations vary by model).[45]

Memory and Storage

RAM organization and expansion

  • Stock RAM: 1 MB ST‑RAM using 30‑pin SIMMs (some early boards used SIPPs). Configurations of 0.5/1/2/4 MB supported officially; 4 MB max via 4×1 MB or 2×2 MB depending on socketing; 2.5 MB is not officially supported.[46]
  • Addressing: contiguous ST‑RAM in the lower 4 MB of the 24‑bit space; DMA sound fetches must reside in first 4 MB.[47]

ROM

  • TOS 1.06 (1.60) or 1.62: 256 KB (two 128 KB ROMs in most STEs). 1.62 fixed desktop medium‑resolution boot bug in 1.60; users often upgrade to TOS 2.06 (256 KB) for enhanced desktop and 1.44 MB floppy support in Mega STE class machines.[48][49]

Floppy and mass storage

  • Floppy: 3.5″ DS/DD 720 KB internal; WD1772 controller (many -02‑02 variants). Stock STE units are DD; later HD support requires “AJAX” controller (C302096) not normally fitted to 1040STE (standard on Mega STE).[50]
  • ACSI hard‑disk: external via DB‑19; common modern replacements include UltraSatan/ACSI2STM. Early DMA IC C025913‑38 can cause write corruption on some STE boards; later C398739‑001 fixes timing (see Troubleshooting).[51]

Sound Capabilities

Programmable sound and PCM playback:

  • YM2149F PSG: three independent square‑wave tone channels plus white noise; 4‑bit per‑channel volume and envelope generator; routed through LMC1992 mixer.[52]
  • DMA PCM: 8‑bit mono or stereo, sample rates ≈6.258/12.517/25.033/50.066 kHz; memory‑mapped control registers at $FF8900–$FF8924; addresses must be even, and buffers must reside within first 4 MB of ST‑RAM.[53]
  • Outputs: rear L/R RCA line out; mono audio is also available on the 13‑pin monitor connector (pin 1).[54]

PCB Schematics & Service Manual

Atari provided an official field service manual covering both 520STE and 1040STE with schematics and parts lists.

  • Core documents:
    • 520/1040STE Field Service Manual (81 pages), includes: CPU/BLiTTER/ROM/CLK; RS‑232/Parallel/MIDI/PSG; DMA/FDD; MCU/SHIFTER/Video; Stereo Sound/Enhanced Joystick; RAM; PSU; Test fixture.[55]
    • 1040STE schematic set (assembly C300780‑001 Rev. A).[56][57]

Motherboard assemblies and identifiers (examples from parts list and service docs):

Assembly/Part Description / Region Notable features
CA400339‑201 Main assembly 1040STE W/MOD (USA) NTSC unit with RF modulator (TV).[58]
CA400340‑111 PCB 1040STE USA W/MOD Board assembly for NTSC with modulator.[59]
CA400329‑101 PCB sub‑assembly STE NTSC W/MOD Sub‑assembly with modulator, cabling.[60]
CA400366‑001 TOS ROM set 1.62 (USA) ICs C301163‑002 (HI), C301164‑002 (LO).[61]
CA070059‑003 PSU 110 V assembly (USA/CAN) Region PSU module.[62]

Technical Details

Subsystem ICs / part numbers Notes
CPU Motorola MC68000FN8 (C398061) 8 MHz PLCC‑68; 16‑bit data / 24‑bit address.[63]
System glue/MMU GST MCU C300589 (no BLiTTER) or C302183 (with BLiTTER) 144‑pin QFP on later boards; integrates address decode, DRAM timing, joystick A/D, BLiTTER (when C302183).[64]
Video (Shifter) GST Shifter C300588‑001 / C301712‑001 12‑bit palette (4096 colors).[65]
BLiTTER PLCC‑68 Atari BLiTTER (various revs) or integrated in C302183 Block move/line op accelerator.[66]
PSG Yamaha YM2149F 3 voices + noise; envelope generator.[67]
DMA sound DMA engine in STe video/audio path; DAC‑08 class converters; LMC1992 mixer Stereo 8‑bit PCM at 6.258–50.066 kHz; Microwire control.[68][69]
Floppy controller WD1772 (often ‑02‑02) 720 KB DD; late HD requires AJAX (not stock on 1040STE).[70]
ACSI/DMA C025913‑38 (early) or C398739‑001(A) (later) Later IC fixes write‑timing corruption on some early STEs.[71]
I/O support MC68901; 2× MC6850; RS‑232 line drivers/receivers Timers/interrupts, MIDI/IKBD ACIAs; DB‑25 RS‑232/parallel.[72]

Technical Documentation

References

  1. ↑ Z*Net: 15-Dec-90 #549, Atari Explorer, Z*Net & ST Report (archived at AtariMax), 1990-12-15—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  2. ↑ Time Capsule: News - Jan.90 - Mar.90, AtariArchives.org, 1990—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  3. ↑ DOIT_ST: Parts (IC cross‑refs), DOIT_ST (archived)—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  4. ↑ Atari ST – STE section, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  5. ↑ WD1772, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  6. ↑ Atari ST – Ports, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  7. ↑ Atari ST – STE, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  8. ↑ The Atari Compendium – STe/TT DMA Sound, Bus Error mirror of Atari Compendium—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  9. ↑ Atari ST – STE, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  10. ↑ Atari 520/1040 STE dimensions (user measurement), AtariAge Forums, 2008—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  11. ↑ Atari 1040STe exhibit, MyOldComputers Museum, 1999—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  12. ↑ TOS: The Operating System– Dirk van den Burg—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  13. ↑ Atari TOS, Wikipedia, 2024—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  14. ↑ Atari ST – STE, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  15. ↑ Time Capsule: News - Jan.90 - Mar.90, AtariArchives.org, 1990—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  16. ↑ DOIT_ST: Parts (C398061 68000FN8 PLCC MPU, STE), DOIT_ST—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  17. ↑ Atari ST MFP (MC68901), Lynn3686—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  18. ↑ Atari STE Hardware (translated ST Mag. No. 44), Info‑Coach.fr, 2021-08-16—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  19. ↑ Concise Atari ST Programmer’s Guide – IKBD interface—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  20. ↑ Yamaha YM2149, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  21. ↑ Atari Compendium – STe/TT DMA Sound, Bus‑Error mirror—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  22. ↑ Atari ST – STE, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  23. ↑ Atari‑Forum: STE shifter & MCU part numbers, Atari‑Forum, 2016—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  24. ↑ Missing BLiTTER from STE (IC IDs), AtariAge Forums, 2017—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  25. ↑ WD1772, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  26. ↑ A new Atari STE bad DMA investigation– Christian Zietz, CHZ‑Soft, 2023-04-22—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  27. ↑ Atari ST – Models/Video, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  28. ↑ Atari STE Hardware, Info‑Coach.fr, 2021-08-16—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  29. ↑ Atari Compendium – STe/TT DMA Sound, Bus‑Error mirror—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  30. ↑ Atari ST 13‑pin video pinout, AtariForumWiki, 2006—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  31. ↑ Atari ST Interfaces / Connectors / Cables, Info‑Coach.fr—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  32. ↑ Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual – Parts List, ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  33. ↑ Atari STE Stereo Audio Interface, Info‑Coach.fr—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  34. ↑ Concise Atari ST Programmer’s Guide – IKBD/MIDI—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  35. ↑ Atari ST – Ports, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  36. ↑ Atari ST 9‑pin joystick/mouse pinout, TruMouse—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  37. ↑ Atari Enhanced 15‑pin joystick (STE/Falcon/Jaguar) pinout, AllPinouts—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  38. ↑ Atari STE Hardware – New Joysticks/Paddles/Pen, Info‑Coach.fr, 2021-08-16—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  39. ↑ Atari ST – Ports, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  40. ↑ Atari ST – Ports, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  41. ↑ Atari ST – ST cartridge port, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  42. ↑ DOIT_ST: Parts, DOIT_ST—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  43. ↑ Atari ST – STE and video modes, Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  44. ↑ DOIT_ST: BLiTTER, DOIT_ST—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  45. ↑ Atari Video cables and SCART mapping, Info‑Coach.fr—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  46. ↑ Atari ST – STE memory (SIMM/SIPP), Wikipedia, 2025—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  47. ↑ Atari Compendium – DMA sound register map, Bus‑Error mirror—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  48. ↑ TOS versions overview– Dirk van den Burg—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  49. ↑ Atari TOS, Wikipedia, 2024—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  50. ↑ WD1772, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  51. ↑ STE bad DMA investigation– Christian Zietz, 2023-04-22—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  52. ↑ Yamaha YM2149, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  53. ↑ Atari Compendium – STe DMA sound, Bus‑Error mirror—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  54. ↑ Atari ST Interfaces – Video/Audio pins, Info‑Coach.fr—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  55. ↑ Atari 520STE / 1040STE Field Service Manual, ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  56. ↑ ATARI 1040STE C300780‑001 Rev.A – Schematics, Elektrotanya, 1986—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  57. ↑ Atari 1040STe Schematic, Internet Archive, 1986—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  58. ↑ Service Manual – Parts (CA400339‑201), ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  59. ↑ Service Manual – Parts (CA400340‑111), ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  60. ↑ Service Manual – Parts (CA400329‑101), ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  61. ↑ Service Manual – Parts (CA400366‑001), ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  62. ↑ Service Manual – Parts (CA070059‑003), ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  63. ↑ DOIT_ST: Parts, DOIT_ST—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  64. ↑ Missing BLiTTER from STE (IC IDs), AtariAge Forums, 2017—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  65. ↑ Atari‑Forum: STE Shifter part numbers, Atari‑Forum, 2016—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  66. ↑ DOIT_ST: BLiTTER, DOIT_ST—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  67. ↑ Yamaha YM2149, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  68. ↑ Atari Compendium – DMA sound, Bus‑Error mirror—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  69. ↑ DOIT_ST: Parts (C398058 LMC1992; C398057 DAC‑0800), DOIT_ST—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  70. ↑ WD1772, AtariForumWiki—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  71. ↑ STE bad DMA investigation– Christian Zietz, 2023-04-22—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  72. ↑ Atari STE Hardware, Info‑Coach.fr, 2021-08-16—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  73. ↑ Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual, ManualsLib—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  74. ↑ Atari 1040STe Schematic, Internet Archive—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
  75. ↑ TOS: The Operating System—link(accessed 2025-08-12)
Retrieved from "https://wiki.retrotechcollection.com/index.php?title=Atari_1040STE&oldid=4550"